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Graceful Waters
Joanna Carey, senior instructor at Sapling Hill wasn't looking for anything more than completing one more year at the facility and getting that much closer to her private dream, a small cabin on a quiet lake. She was tough, smart and she had a plan for her life.
When tough Instructor Carey meets angry and disillusioned Grace Waters, neither is prepared for what comes next. Stubborn and angry Grace meets her match in Carey, the strong and disciplined woman who's determined to help Grace help herself. What she's not expecting is that Grace will break through her own defenses. Together they will change each other's lives in ways that neither thought possible.
When tough Instructor Carey meets angry and disillusioned Grace Waters, neither is prepared for what comes next. Stubborn and angry Grace meets her match in Carey, the strong and disciplined woman who's determined to help Grace help herself. What she's not expecting is that Grace will break through her own defenses. Together they will change each other's lives in ways that neither thought possible.
312 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2003
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 1, 2022
Ms Miller and Ms Foster I beg you for a sequel....
I regret waiting for so long to read this book. Somehow it slipped by me but what a gem once I got going. From inception this tale about main characters Grace and "Carey" hooked and carried me away (willingly). Everything flowed well. There were many emotional ups and downs with some tears on my part. For anyone looking for a gripping story with romance and angst that will leave you wishing for more - this is it!! Graceful Waters is now among my favourites. Without question 5 stars.
I regret waiting for so long to read this book. Somehow it slipped by me but what a gem once I got going. From inception this tale about main characters Grace and "Carey" hooked and carried me away (willingly). Everything flowed well. There were many emotional ups and downs with some tears on my part. For anyone looking for a gripping story with romance and angst that will leave you wishing for more - this is it!! Graceful Waters is now among my favourites. Without question 5 stars.
March 9, 2018
Don't you just hate it when a good book comes to an end!!!
Bloody brilliant!
Bloody brilliant!
June 1, 2022
Fantastic book as always. I‘ve read it multiple times. Wonderful age-gab romance. The story and the romance within develops slow and naturally. But it has some angst and triggers (mention of rape and breast cancer) in it.
It was originally an Xena/Gab uber story and one of my fav.
Highly recommend.
It was originally an Xena/Gab uber story and one of my fav.
Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2022
Superb - loved it - but am I the only one who brought an unfortmated Kindle copy so there were no gaps between sentences - often really confusing? Totally sold on the story - thank you - though did feel like the kitchen sink was thrown at me!
January 16, 2022
The writing and formatting in this book is horrible. Too much dialogue, not enough descriptions and for a large part of the book I was very confused about the setting.
But somehow, against the greater odds, I enjoyed this book….
The build up to the sex scenes are incredibly hot and as I’ve said, this book majorly depends on dialogue and the ability to make such an intense scene with that alone- something this author is definitely good at. If only that applied to the rest of the book.
Maybe the authors improved, I don’t remember how old this book is.
Either way this… was interesting to say the least…
After writing this I realized I have read a book by this author called “accidental love” so I feel safe saying that she has improved? There was major criticisms with that book too but she’s definitely growing! Always a pleasant thing to see! But I’m not even sure if this author still writes or if they’re even alive and active.
But somehow, against the greater odds, I enjoyed this book….
The build up to the sex scenes are incredibly hot and as I’ve said, this book majorly depends on dialogue and the ability to make such an intense scene with that alone- something this author is definitely good at. If only that applied to the rest of the book.
Maybe the authors improved, I don’t remember how old this book is.
Either way this… was interesting to say the least…
After writing this I realized I have read a book by this author called “accidental love” so I feel safe saying that she has improved? There was major criticisms with that book too but she’s definitely growing! Always a pleasant thing to see! But I’m not even sure if this author still writes or if they’re even alive and active.
April 19, 2015
I'm a bit confused, to be honest.
I loved it, like really really loved it. But only one big part of it. Up until Grace left the facility, I thought this was a 5 star story for sure. I thought it was going to go on my list of favorites. I thought it was incredibly intense, touching, and original. I absolutely loved the characters and thought their dynamics were simply wonderful and each scene was a delight to read. The pace was slow, and Grace's evolution was written with a lot of realism. I was hooked. Addicted. I couldn't wait to see the relationship change.
This first part was great enough that I still gave the book 4 stars in the end.
But then...the last 3rd of the book, I don't know what happened. I felt like I was reading a totally different story. There were a lot of "WTF" moments. I hardly recognised the characters and could not stand some of their behaviours. Grace confessed her love to Carey, and became this desperate naive teenager chasing after "the one" and "saving herself". It just added to the age gap. But very quickly, in a matter of months, she also became this cocky overly confident lesbian around Carey, overtly seducing her, openly talking about sex, and I thought that behaviour really didn't do justice to the wonderful character that had been depicted in the first part of the book.
The story became rushed, like a blur of time passing by. The transition between friendship and relationship was really weird, but even weirder were Carey's feelings. She realised really late into the story that what she felt for Grace was love (which I think was normal given the circumstances) but I felt like the reader was left in the dark about how it happened. The connection between the women was lost somewhere. The intimacy that existed and grew while Carey was Grace's mentor disappeared. And I missed that terribly. It kind of became a sex thing, only.
But damn, then it became this very cheesy corny romance. 2 years after meeting, a few months after getting together, they get married and talk about children. It gave me whiplash, seriously.
Overall, a lot of things annoyed the hell out of me.
- Carey got cancer (got surgery and survived): I really have no idea why the writers thought that was necessary. There had been enough angst to my liking and it really didn't bring anything to the story. I just didn't get it.
- I don't understand. Who graduates from college after 2 years?
- Some situations are kind of surreal: when Grace fishes and gets a hook in her ass, pulls down her jeans and panties in front of Carey, just like that? Just plain weird.
- I felt like I was reading a book written by nuns at some point, because they kept talking about how dangerous sex could be, how bad drugs were, how bad drinks were.... Grace gets in a car accident on her way to a party with very "irresponsible" girls and because she doesn't put her seatbelt on. Grace actually drinks coffee when she goes out in bars. Carey asks Grace's father permission before proposing. It was all very archaic. It shouldn't be so black and white!
Anyway, I'll just hold on to the memory of that first wonderful part who kept me up all night and try to forget about everything I've just mentioned.
I loved it, like really really loved it. But only one big part of it. Up until Grace left the facility, I thought this was a 5 star story for sure. I thought it was going to go on my list of favorites. I thought it was incredibly intense, touching, and original. I absolutely loved the characters and thought their dynamics were simply wonderful and each scene was a delight to read. The pace was slow, and Grace's evolution was written with a lot of realism. I was hooked. Addicted. I couldn't wait to see the relationship change.
This first part was great enough that I still gave the book 4 stars in the end.
But then...the last 3rd of the book, I don't know what happened. I felt like I was reading a totally different story. There were a lot of "WTF" moments. I hardly recognised the characters and could not stand some of their behaviours. Grace confessed her love to Carey, and became this desperate naive teenager chasing after "the one" and "saving herself". It just added to the age gap. But very quickly, in a matter of months, she also became this cocky overly confident lesbian around Carey, overtly seducing her, openly talking about sex, and I thought that behaviour really didn't do justice to the wonderful character that had been depicted in the first part of the book.
The story became rushed, like a blur of time passing by. The transition between friendship and relationship was really weird, but even weirder were Carey's feelings. She realised really late into the story that what she felt for Grace was love (which I think was normal given the circumstances) but I felt like the reader was left in the dark about how it happened. The connection between the women was lost somewhere. The intimacy that existed and grew while Carey was Grace's mentor disappeared. And I missed that terribly. It kind of became a sex thing, only.
But damn, then it became this very cheesy corny romance. 2 years after meeting, a few months after getting together, they get married and talk about children. It gave me whiplash, seriously.
Overall, a lot of things annoyed the hell out of me.
- Carey got cancer (got surgery and survived): I really have no idea why the writers thought that was necessary. There had been enough angst to my liking and it really didn't bring anything to the story. I just didn't get it.
- I don't understand. Who graduates from college after 2 years?
- Some situations are kind of surreal: when Grace fishes and gets a hook in her ass, pulls down her jeans and panties in front of Carey, just like that? Just plain weird.
- I felt like I was reading a book written by nuns at some point, because they kept talking about how dangerous sex could be, how bad drugs were, how bad drinks were.... Grace gets in a car accident on her way to a party with very "irresponsible" girls and because she doesn't put her seatbelt on. Grace actually drinks coffee when she goes out in bars. Carey asks Grace's father permission before proposing. It was all very archaic. It shouldn't be so black and white!
Anyway, I'll just hold on to the memory of that first wonderful part who kept me up all night and try to forget about everything I've just mentioned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2008
The first two thirds of this book was really good. It was about a 17 year old troublemaking girl who ends up in a boot camp for girls. She's gay. She grows up and matures and deals with some really wicked abuse. It was well-written. A great story.
The last third of the book wasn't as good. I felt that the relationship between the girl and the instructor was too forced. It was all right for her to have a crush on the lady, but it seemed like the author forced it to be a relationship. Too bad, 'cause otherwise I'd say it was perfect.
The last third of the book wasn't as good. I felt that the relationship between the girl and the instructor was too forced. It was all right for her to have a crush on the lady, but it seemed like the author forced it to be a relationship. Too bad, 'cause otherwise I'd say it was perfect.
December 8, 2015
The first 2/3rds of this book read like a 4+ star review and then it all changed. The pacing went from 1-100. It was a series of rushed events that felt pretty meh and either awkward or cheesy or both. I was disappointed with Grace's behaviour; she grew so much through the first chunk of the book, but then became a desperate and sometimes bizarre character - that just didn't fit.
I feel like there was a path the authors wanted these characters to follow beyond one novel so they hashed it out and called it done.
I feel like there was a path the authors wanted these characters to follow beyond one novel so they hashed it out and called it done.
September 10, 2020
Beautiful and heartfelt book
March 7, 2018
Excellent!
I loved Graceful Waters. What a beautifully written book. Just the right balance of intimate scenes, friendship, relationships and an inside look at the hard life of an angry teen.
I loved Graceful Waters. What a beautifully written book. Just the right balance of intimate scenes, friendship, relationships and an inside look at the hard life of an angry teen.
August 1, 2013
After assaulting a teacher, Seventeen year old juvenile delinquent, Grace Waters, is sent to Sapling Hill, a boot camp for out of control teenagers. Grace isn’t at all bothered by the judges sentence, thinking that Sapling Hill will be a breeze. She soon finds out just how wrong she can be.
Joanna Carey, (Carey) is the senior instructor in charge at Sapling Hill. She sees potential in Grace and in turn tries her best to help her. Before Carey can help Grace though, Grace has to help herself. This includes divulging the dark secret she’s been carrying around with her for so long and letting go of her various demons. Will Grace ever get to the point where she will trust someone enough to open up to them?
Grace and Carey lock horns on many occasions. Both women are stubborn and there can only be one victor. Of course, due to Carey’s position, it must be her. Which doesn’t go down too well with Grace.
As time passes, Grace begins to see Carey in an entirely different light. Carey herself, finds Grace is getting under her skin in ways she never thought would be possible.
The meeting of Grace and Carey is going to change both their lives forever.
This is a reprint of one of my favorite books that I’ve read many times. I’ve loved all of BL Miller’s and Verda Foster’s books. Whether they write together or alone, they are both outstanding authors.
The story is fast paced and a page turner from the first page through to the last. I’d like to add in here, that there is nothing inappropriate at all between Grace and Carey while Grace is under Carey’s care in Sapling Hill.
There is far more to this book than a peek into a teen boot camp. Very real issues are dealt with in a sympathetic manner. It’s so good to see how Grace transforms from an out of control teenager, into a young woman in control of her life and her future. The growth pattern we see is tremendous.
Both Grace and Carey are well formed, multidimensional characters and are backed up by a wealth of equally as well formed secondary characters. The scenic descriptions and interactions between all the characters, leaves nothing to the imagination. I felt as though I was living out in Sapling Hill myself.
Even though I’ve read this book on many occasions, I still cannot put it down once I start it. I was so pleased when I saw that this was to be re-published and in ebook, no less.
I know this was written quite a long while ago, but I would dearly love to see a sequel. Both Grace, Carey and their family and friends have a lot more to say to us.
Joanna Carey, (Carey) is the senior instructor in charge at Sapling Hill. She sees potential in Grace and in turn tries her best to help her. Before Carey can help Grace though, Grace has to help herself. This includes divulging the dark secret she’s been carrying around with her for so long and letting go of her various demons. Will Grace ever get to the point where she will trust someone enough to open up to them?
Grace and Carey lock horns on many occasions. Both women are stubborn and there can only be one victor. Of course, due to Carey’s position, it must be her. Which doesn’t go down too well with Grace.
As time passes, Grace begins to see Carey in an entirely different light. Carey herself, finds Grace is getting under her skin in ways she never thought would be possible.
The meeting of Grace and Carey is going to change both their lives forever.
This is a reprint of one of my favorite books that I’ve read many times. I’ve loved all of BL Miller’s and Verda Foster’s books. Whether they write together or alone, they are both outstanding authors.
The story is fast paced and a page turner from the first page through to the last. I’d like to add in here, that there is nothing inappropriate at all between Grace and Carey while Grace is under Carey’s care in Sapling Hill.
There is far more to this book than a peek into a teen boot camp. Very real issues are dealt with in a sympathetic manner. It’s so good to see how Grace transforms from an out of control teenager, into a young woman in control of her life and her future. The growth pattern we see is tremendous.
Both Grace and Carey are well formed, multidimensional characters and are backed up by a wealth of equally as well formed secondary characters. The scenic descriptions and interactions between all the characters, leaves nothing to the imagination. I felt as though I was living out in Sapling Hill myself.
Even though I’ve read this book on many occasions, I still cannot put it down once I start it. I was so pleased when I saw that this was to be re-published and in ebook, no less.
I know this was written quite a long while ago, but I would dearly love to see a sequel. Both Grace, Carey and their family and friends have a lot more to say to us.
August 24, 2015
I have read this book a number of times. It is my all time favourite. This is the book that I was trying to write as a teenage but didn't have the courage to finish - I took the easy way out. Touching book about love and the barriers that we sometimes need to break through. Thank you for giving me my story :)
April 12, 2014
I loved this! Thought it would be tragic. But there was a slow build up and really good written! This is the first time I've left a review, and this book really deserves it all the starts it gets
October 9, 2019
Never heard of this author until they popped up on my newsfeed. Enjoyed the book for the most part. The last quarter of the book dragged in some places and felt a bit jumpy near the end, but happy ending nonetheless :)
May 8, 2024
Great love story
I first read this book as an Uber Xena fan fiction decades ago. I am glad I bought it. It is a great love story and has an open ending so the reader can picture the rest of the characters future on their own.
I first read this book as an Uber Xena fan fiction decades ago. I am glad I bought it. It is a great love story and has an open ending so the reader can picture the rest of the characters future on their own.
September 20, 2019
I thought this was full of teen angst and I think it is more suited to teenagers. A nice story, but the ending seemed a bit flat.
April 19, 2024
Not sure why I put this off for so long.. It was pretty good. My only real issue is the pacing - I wish the post-Sapling Hill portion of the book could have been a bit longer.
June 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
July 6, 2024
I loved this book and the interaction with the characters. I first read this story as a fan fiction story online. I loved it then, and I love it now.
October 9, 2010
This Novel is a Must Read by one of my favorite authors!
July 25, 2015
I really like long stories that gives you the opportunity to see the character grow, and this book absolutely does it, quite the unexpected love story! Touching.
April 3, 2017
The writing made it a slog - not just the style itself (I've read worse) but the focus just didn't do it for me. And for all that the book tried to make it more palatable and Did Not Go There with the relationship until Grace graduated, the fact is that at the time Grace still fell for someone who could - and did - punish her for anything, including not calling her "ma'am" after every sentence. It read like Stockholm syndrome.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews